Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes ColicCalm different from ordinary gripe waters and other colic formulas?
- Do I need a prescription to buy ColicCalm?
- How much does it cost?
- How long does USPS Priority Mail generally take?
- Are the ingredients of ColicCalm safe for babies?
- From what age can my baby start taking ColicCalm?
- What is the difference between the homeopathics in ColicCalm and herbal oils or extracts in other gripe waters?
- What role does the vegetable charcoal play?
- How often should the doses be administered?
- What is the best way to administer ColicCalm?
- Can ColicCalm be added to formula or expressed breastmilk?
- What does ColicCalm taste like?
- How long does it take to have an effect? How long does it last?
- Does ColicCalm work from the very first dose for all babies?
- Why does my baby sleep soundly and longer after giving ColicCalm?
- How does ColicCalm help with teething?
- Does ColicCalm have any side effects?
- Is it safe to mix ColicCalm with other medicines or products that baby is taking?
- Does ColicCalm carry any warnings or information statements?
- How do I store ColicCalm?
- What is the best way to get out spots or stains?
- How long should I continue giving ColicCalm to my baby?
- How long should each bottle last?
- Can ColicCalm be used for anything other than colic?
Q: What makes ColicCalm different from other supposed colic relief formulas?
A: ColicCalm homeopathic gripe water provides safe, gentle relief for discomfort from gas, stomach upset and colic. ColicCalm is the only gripe water that is an FDA registered and regulated medicine. Colic Calm contains nine all-natural, allergen-free homeopathic soothers and is specially formulated to ease the pain and discomfort commonly associated with colic. Our formula does NOT contain alcohol, sugar, sodium bicarbonate, binders or fillers, yeast, wheat, gluten, soy, dairy, animal products, or any artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors.
Q: Do I need a prescription to buy ColicCalm?
A: No prescription for ColicCalm homeopathic gripe water is needed. It is an over-the-counter product.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: The suggested retail price is $18.95. We offer discounts on multiple bottle purchases and a variety of shipping options to suit your baby's needs.
Q: How long does shipment via USPS Priority Mail generally take?
A: We strive to keep shipping costs as low as possible. We find that the United States Postal Service offers the best value via their Priority Mail service for those that can wait 2-7 business days for delivery. You should receive an automated e-mail from the United States Postal Service with a delivery confirmation number for tracking at www.usps.com if you choose this option. For quicker shipment and advanced tracking information, we offer United Parcel Service (UPS) delivery in our shipping options. Overnight delivery is also available by UPS Next Day Saver.
Q: Are the ingredients of ColicCalm safe for babies?
A: All homeopathic medicines, including ColicCalm, are regulated in the US by the FDA and have undergone clinical testing to substantiate their safety in order to be listed in the HPUS. All ingredients are carefully selected and must meet our strict quality assurance standards prior to use. All ingredients are meticulously calculated and safe for babies. They are all allergen-free and side-effect-free. Our bottles are safety sealed and batch samples undergo purity testing before release. We use amber glass bottles for maximum stability, quality and purity. The nine homeopathic remedies in our formula are chamomile, fennel, caraway, ginger, peppermint, lemon balm, aloe, blackthorn and vegetable carbon. See benefits of each ingredient by clicking here.
Q: From what age can my baby start taking ColicCalm?
A: Colic, gas and reflux usually become evident in babies from as early as two weeks of age. Most parents of two week olds have found it best to start with just a few drops, gradually adding more if needed (not to exceed the recommended one half teaspoon per dose). For such young babies, a few drops is all that is usually needed to provide relief within minutes.
Q: What is the difference between the homeopathics in ColicCalm and herbal oils in other gripe waters?
A: We are indeed the only gripe water that contains homeopathic remedies (homeopathic medicine) as opposed to herbal oils or extracts (dietary supplements). Many experts believe that herbal oils and extracts should not be consumed internally, especially by infants, due to purity and allergy concerns. Homeopathics are unique in that they contain minute amounts of natural remedies that are designed to stimulate the body's own self-healing properties. This is exceptionally helpful for babies that suffer from immature digestive systems. Homeopathics are allergen-free and side-effect-free.
Q: What role does the vegetable charcoal play?
A: The key ingredient in ColicCalm is carbo vegetabilis (vegetable charcoal). Charcoal, or carbon as it is called, is the most abundant element on earth. Carbon is an important element; the human body is composed of 18% carbon (65-75% of the body is water). It works by a process called adsorption (this is different from absorption, which means to incorporate or assimilate a substance). Homeopathic vegetable charcoal is an inactive material which passes through the intestines without being absorbed itself. On its way, it collects toxins and wastes via adsorption. It also adsorbs gases, thus relieving flatulence, bloating and gas pains. It is fully excreted in bowel movements and will darken stools. Because it is not a drug, it has no direct action on any organ of the body, it does not enter the blood stream, nor is the vegetable carbon itself absorbed into the body. All of it passes out of the body system naturally and easily, along with the gases and toxins it has collected on its journey.
Q: How often should the doses be administered?
A: One half teaspoon (2.5ml or 50 drops) of ColicCalm should be given whenever symptoms of colic appear, and can be repeated every 30 minutes up to a maximum of 6 doses in a 24 hour period. ColicCalm can be given prior to feeding or afterwards…whenever baby is distressed by colic, upset stomach, gas, hiccups, teething or acid reflux. It is only necessary to give when needed, when you recognize that baby is starting to get uncomfortable and before things start to escalate. Try to nip each episode in the bud. Be sure to shake bottle well before each use. Note: Please use the oral dispenser provided in box to dispense up to1/2 teaspoon of liquid slowly into baby's mouth. You may also choose to use the NumiMed pacifier dispenser (available on our ordering webpage) or the like (various dispensers are available in pharmacies nationwide).
Q: What is the best way to administer ColicCalm?
A: Babies love the naturally sweet taste of ColicCalm. Most babies swallow easily when the included dropper is placed between the gums and cheek towards the back of the mouth and dispensed slowly. We have also had very positive reviews on the NumiMed Dispenser (also developed by a mother in need), so we recommend its purchase along with ColicCalm. It is incredibly easy and infinitely less messy when baby sucks the slightly sweet, dark formula from the NumiMed. Additionally, the NumiMed can be used for any oral medications you are giving your baby. Whichever method you choose, make sure to clean the dropper/ NumiMed and let air dry between doses to avoid contamination.
Q: Can ColicCalm be added to formula or expressed breastmilk?
A: Ideally, ColicCalm is best given "straight". It seems to be most effective when administered on its own. Most babies really like the sweet taste of ColicCalm. We encourage parents to taste it themselves! However, parents of very finicky babies have found that their little ones prefer to have it mixed into a small amount (1 or 2 ounces is plenty) of supplementary formula or breastmilk. The taste is then very familiar and comforting.
Q: What does ColicCalm taste like?
A: Our formula has a very pleasant, sweet taste that almost all babies love. Because we use homeopathics and not essential oils or extracts, there is no herbal taste whatsoever. We have been told often that babies smile or calm down immediately when they see a ColicCalm bottle coming their way. We encourage you to give it a taste yourselves.
Q:How long does it take to have an effect? How long does it last?
A: In most cases, you will see results in three to five minutes. While each baby is different, most remain comfortable for several hours.
Q: Does ColicCalm work from the very first dose for all babies?
A: Many babies will experience relief within minutes of their first dose of ColicCalm. There are some babies, however, whose bodies take a bit longer before showing significant improvement, especially infants over 1 month of age, who have often been conditioned. We recommend giving ColicCalm at least 3 days to work its wonders. Some babies simply have trouble calming down once the crying cycle has begun. We encourage you to email or call us at (562) 219-3232 for helpful customized suggestions that may make all the difference. We are here to help.
Q: Why does my baby sleep soundly and longer after giving ColicCalm?
A: Most often, because pain has been relieved and baby is comfortable and able to relax and rest. There are absolutely no narcotic or habit forming ingredients in our formula. Peaceful sleep often follows naturally after relief.
Q: How does ColicCalm help with teething?
A: Saliva in teething babies produces an enzyme that upsets their stomachs. Additionally, babies cry a lot when teething and tend to take in more air, making them gassy and irritable. This can cause even more crying, and so the cycle continues…until ColicCalm comes to the rescue and relieves the source of the pain.
Q: Does ColicCalm have any side effects?
A: There are no known absolute contraindications to any of the active ingredients in ColicCalm. All of our homeopathic remedies have undergone extensive clinical testing to substantiate their safety and efficacy in order to be listed in the HPUS and comply with all FDA laws and standards. However, it is always advised that you check with your pediatrician before introducing any product.
Q: Is it safe to mix ColicCalm with other medicines or products that baby is taking?
A: As with all medications, it is important to ensure that your doctor is aware of the use of this product. Always check with your doctor if your baby is taking other medications or is being treated/has been treated for serious health concerns.
Q: Does ColicCalm carry any warnings or information statements?
A: Follow instructions on dosage amounts. Standard warnings are indictated on both box and bottle label. Keep out of the reach of children. As with all medications, ensure that your doctor is aware of the use of this product.
Q: How do I store ColicCalm?
A: This product should be stored at room temperature, out of direct sunlight. Because there is no need for refrigeration, our formula is ideal for traveling away from home. It is guaranteed effective up to 6 months from the time bottle is opened.
Q: What is the best way to get out spots or stains?
A: We have left ColicCalm's rich dark color as Mother Nature intended, without any "pretty" coloring to alter its purity and efficacy. While the microfine particles of vegetable charcoal do not contain any dye, they can get lodged between fabric fibers and may require gentle manipulation to loosen. This is why we have included a staining warning on bottle and box. We do find that stains/spots lift out easily with any of the spray stain removers. OxyClean works particularly well and is available in most grocery and drug stores. If your baby has very sensitive skin, make sure to wash clothes or linens twice. You can now find the new OxyClean Baby Stain Soaker at Babies R Us and Target. This is the best option since it is is 100% fragrance, chlorine, detergent, and dye free, and won't irritate your baby's sensitive skin. For stubborn stains, try pre-spotting with dishwashing liquid before washing. Please keep in mind that the possible inconvenience of spot removal should be insignificant compared to the relief of your baby's pain.
Q: How long should I continue giving ColicCalm to my baby?
A: ColicCalm should be given whenever symptoms of colic appear until baby outgrows digestive pains. That difficult period is usually shortened considerably by ColicCalm's self-healing properties. ColicCalm has also proven extremely helpful in easing any pain associated with the introduction of new foods and stomach pain that accompanies teething. Many toddlers and older children have also benefitted from tummy ache relief with ColicCalm.
Q: How long should each bottle last?
A: Each bottle contains 24 doses. Some babies require more doses than others depending on the frequency of their digestive discomfort. We recommend discarding six months after opening.
Q: Can ColicCalm be used for anything other than colic?
A: You can use ColicCalm when baby experiences stomach pain that accompanies teething or when introducing new foods that may cause gas pain or upset tummy. It also relieves indigestion, bloating, and flatulence and treats hiccups quickly. ColicCalm gently stimulates the eliminitive properties and encourages bowel regularity. In addition, a great number of parents swear by ColicCalm for natural relief of acid reflux.